LE MOYNE INSTITUTE, MEMPHIS, TENN.
BY PROF. A. J. STEELE.
The close of the year brings us also to the close of the first decade in the history of Le Moyne Institute. The founder of the school has gone to his reward and his works do follow him. The institution which he founded is but at the beginning of its usefulness and of its possibilities. This year we graduate a class of ten from the full course (four years), the largest class yet sent out, and the fourth. Thus far the graduates of the school, excepting one only, have taught almost continuously since completing the course. The ten members of the present class will teach; some of them expect to pursue their studies further at Fisk University, after working a year for the means.
The public exercises at the closing this year were unusually interesting, judging from the attendance, not only of colored people, friends of the graduates, but also of prominent white families of the city. Formerly gentlemen of this latter class only came, now quite as many ladies as gentlemen are seen in the audience that fills and overflows the church. I do not suppose that of the many who read this account, even those who look back to the joys and excitements of “graduation” can realize just what that word implies to our students here, with the memory of their past and with the difficulties of their present and future in mind.
To receive the diploma with its ribbon and “broad seal” and formal address, to listen as the principal parties interested to the “annual address” by the “Judge” or “General” or “Colonel” as the case may be, and it is sure to be the one or the other of these, to sit on the broad platform, to receive flowers and flowers, to be cheered and complimented and envied by admiring friends—we all know what these mean to a “graduate.” For my part, and for yours, too, dear readers, I know it is a matter of rejoicing that in all our land there is not a youth who may not hopefully look up and forward to the enjoyment of these things.
I should not have taken so much of my space for this part of my letter, for I have little now left in which to tell of the every day experiences and work of the year. How for want of room and accommodations we have, during the year, had to turn away over fifty pupils who applied in person for admission; how a more regular and steady attendance has told for good on the scholarship and work of the school; how the Spirit blessed us in the conversion of not less than thirty of our pupils.
In all our successes, as in all our discouragements, the good hand of our God has been upon us, and we rejoice in it all that we see His work going forward and yearly gaining new triumphs.
Our outlook for the coming year is most assuring, and our only serious difficulty would seem to be want of room for all who come to us. Our building must be enlarged.